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The self-checkouts at ALDI in the UK are very efficient. This is partly due to the barcodes, which occupy about a third of the packaging. Additionally, rather than requiring a staff member to scan their ID barcode for assistance, a simple metallic tag is used. This tag speeds up the process, especially for approving alcohol purchases or correcting weights.

The Tesco self-scan system is also cool. I can easily scan items and place them directly into my bags, bypassing the need for a trolley or basket. Although I'm occasionally checked to make sure I'm not shop lifting, which can be inconvenient during larger shopping trips, it happens infrequently enough not to be bothersome.

I always opt for self-checkout or self-shopping. While it may save costs for the retailers, it also saves me time.




I love the self-checkouts some grocery stores in the Netherlands have.

When you arrive you can either grab a hand scanner or open the app. Scan items as you put it in the cart, get to the self checkout and either scan the QR code on your phone or place the hand scanner in the socket, pay and you’re done.

Check is done by having a little gate that opens by scanning your receipt, with an employee on the other side that randomly checks your receipt against what you have in your cart.

No scale BS, no “place the item in the bagging area” nagging, no lockup for the most mundane reasons, just smooth sailing.


Yup, this is the way. Coop in Switzerland has had it since 2010.




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